Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about indulging in a plate of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. It’s a dish that combines the creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the savory goodness of chicken, all nestled inside tender pasta shells. My family and I recently had the pleasure of trying this recipe, and it quickly became a household favorite. The blend of flavors was nothing short of spectacular, and the dish was both hearty and satisfying. Even the kids, who can be notoriously picky eaters, went back for seconds. It was the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you today.

Ingredients

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. What I love about this recipe is that it uses simple, readily available ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a filling that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The combination of cheeses gives the dish a wonderful texture, while the chicken adds a hearty element that makes it a complete meal.

Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create a delicious batch of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the filling by mixing the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
4. Fill each pasta shell with the chicken mixture using a spoon. Be generous with the filling but careful not to overstuff the shells.
5. Pour 1 cup of Alfredo sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish over the sauce.
6. Cover the shells with the remaining Alfredo sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can broil for an additional 2 minutes for a golden top if desired.
8. Garnish with parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.

These steps are simple enough to follow, even for novice cooks, and the result is a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meal is important, especially if you’re watching your intake of certain nutrients. This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, with each serving containing about 600 calories. While it’s certainly on the indulgent side, the dish is balanced with protein from the chicken and cheese, and carbohydrates from the pasta, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

Preparation Time

Time is often of the essence when cooking, especially on busy weeknights. Fortunately, this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is relatively quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

This makes it a great option for a weeknight meal or even a casual dinner party, as it doesn’t require you to spend hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Serving Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Pair with a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
• Include a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay, to complement the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who like an extra cheesy kick.
• Finish the meal with a light dessert, such as a fruit sorbet, to cleanse the palate.

These ideas will help you create a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress your family or guests.

Additional Tips

To make the most out of your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, consider these additional tips:

1. Use freshly grated cheese: It melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
2. Try homemade Alfredo sauce: Making your own sauce allows you to control the ingredients and flavor profile. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up!
3. Experiment with herbs: Adding herbs like basil or oregano to the filling can enhance the flavor and add an aromatic touch.
4. Make ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner prep a breeze.
5. Double the recipe: This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for a future meal.

These tips will help you refine the recipe to suit your taste and make the cooking process even more enjoyable.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, while jumbo shells work best for stuffing, you can use manicotti or cannelloni as an alternative.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a combination of your favorite vegetables.

Q: How can I make the dish lighter?
A: To reduce calories, use low-fat cheese and a lighter version of Alfredo sauce. You can also opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

Q: Can this dish be made gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure that your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free as well.

Q: How long can leftovers be stored?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

I hope this comprehensive guide to Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells inspires you to try this delicious recipe. It’s a wonderful dish for sharing with loved ones, and with these tips and variations, you can customize it to fit any occasion. Happy cooking!